Mount Hood

Hunter under fire

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

Travis Hunter, the standout two-way player for the Colorado Buffaloes and 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, has recently found his personal life under intense scrutiny due to controversies involving his fiancée, Leanna Lenee. The couple have been engaged since February 2024, but have recently faced the blunt end of social media’s gimmicks.
The drama began when videos surfaced online depicting Lenee in situations that sparked criticism. In a TikTok posted by Lenee, she stated that Hunter would drive her to parties, wait outside in his car for hours, and then drive her home. Shortly after this, a video of her dancing inappropriately with another man surfaced, leading to speculation about the nature of their relationship. The footage, believed to be from several years ago, was spread throughout social media, leading to harsh criticism and negative attention.
As if the video wasn’t bad enough, more accusations surrounding Lenee’s behavior surfaced. When Hunter was awarded the highly sought after Heisman trophy, his fiancée didn’t stand up to congratulate him until Colorado coach Deion Sanders nudged her shoulder, prompting her to do so. Another situation that caused fans to believe she was out of line was at a scheduled event where Lenee was caught on video angrily stating, “I have to sit here the entire time you take pictures with fans?” Among these viral videos was also a clip of Sanders jokingly picking up a stack of books, telling Hunter, “I’m gonna do your prenup for you, it’s gonna be about this thick.”
This situation not only attracted attention from fans, but also from notable figures in the sports world. Former NFL wide receiver Dez Bryant publicly advised Hunter to reconsider his relationship with Lenee, suggesting that she might not be the right partner for him. Other celebrities such as NFL stars Aaron Rogers, Ocho Cinco, Shannon Sharpe and rapper Bow Wow have been vocal about the situation, advising Travis to consider the consequences of staying with her.
In response to the unwanted attention, both Hunter and Lenee deactivated their social media accounts in late December 2024. Hunter expressed frustration over the invasive commentary, stating, “Y’all hate on me then you go hate on my girl … We’re inseparable. If she’s hurting, I’m hurting.”
Although Hunter and Lenee have chosen to maintain a low profile on social media, they are still planning a wedding for May 2025.
The ongoing drama truly highlights the difficulties faced by young athletes in today’s day and age, where personal relationships are commonly subjected to public scrutiny. As Hunter continues to prepare for his professional career, the couple’s ability to withstand external pressures will certainly play a significant role in their future together.

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

Bowl games

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

The 2024-25 NCAA college football Bowl games delivered exciting matchups, showcasing exceptional talent and outstanding team performances. Here’s a breakdown of the highlights from the Rose Bowl, Cotton Bowl, Sugar Bowl, Orange Bowl and Peach Bowl.

Rose Bowl: Ohio State vs. Oregon
In the Rose Bowl, Ohio State came out with a commanding 41-21 victory over Oregon. Ohio State’s defense came to play, limiting Oregon’s playmakers and forcing critical turnovers. The win solidified Ohio State’s place as a semifinal contender in the expanded College Football Playoffs.

Cotton Bowl: Ohio State vs. Texas
The Cotton Bowl featured a clash between Ohio State Buckeyes and the Texas Longhorns in the semifinals. The Buckeyes emerged victorious 28-14, as Ohio State’s defense stifled Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, preventing the Longhorns from gaining any momentum. Offensively for the Buckeyes, they were able to deliver crucial plays that eventually sent them to the national championship game.

Sugar Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Georgia
Notre Dame pulled off a 23-10 upset over Georgia in the Sugar Bowl, showcasing their presence on defense. The Irish stunned Georgia’s rushing attack, while quarterback Riley Leonard managed the game effectively with timely throws and smart decisions. Georgia struggled to generate points against Notre Dame’s defense, which paved the way for the Irish to advance.

Orange Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Penn State
The Orange Bowl provided fans with a thrilling semifinal matchup, with Notre Dame narrowly defeating Penn State 27-24. The Irish showed their grit by overcoming a fourth-quarter deficit, capped off with a 41-yard field goal by kicker Mitch Jeter. Penn State’s offense put up a great effort, but fell just short against Notre Dame’s late-game execution. If Notre Dame is able to win it all, it would be their first championship in 36 years.

Peach Bowl: Texas vs. Arizona State
The Peach Bowl gave spectators one of the most dramatic games of the season, with Texas defeating Arizona State 38-35 in double overtime. Quinn Ewers executed key drives for the Longhorns, including a clutch touchdown pass in second overtime. Two missed field goal attempts by Texas kicker Bert Auburn helped keep Arizona State in the game. Ultimately, the Sun Devils’ defense couldn’t hold off Texas.

These standout bowl games highlighted the best of college football, with top tier competition that set the stage for an exciting conclusion to the 2024-25 season.

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

Happy birthday, Western

Written by: Hannah Field | Editor-in-Chief

Jan. 18, 1856 — 169 long years ago — Western was founded by 11 Disciples of Christ, originally titled Monmouth University. They were hoping to create a united community in their religion, which did, in its own way over time, become a tight-knit intermingling of students, professors and others, although without the faith originally in mind. Instead, the Western community honors their devotion to academic excellence and the Western way — a tailored educational experience, boasting small class sizes, caring professional staff, educational resources and a safe, walkable campus. Or, in Western’s words, “(commitment) to changing lives, strengthening communities and transforming our world.”

Western is the oldest public university in the state of Oregon, as well as an NCAA Division II institution, harboring a diverse population of students from underrepresented groups, veterans and especially first generation college students, notably recognized by the college.

Thanks to settlers who donated land and money, as well as financial support from local government members, Western came to fruition amongst a trying time in the 1850s, when customs and traditions were clashing with new age movements. Western, despite its religious founding, became an established center for training teachers for public and private schools, becoming Oregon State Normal School in 1882. It closed for a year after lack of funds and reopened as Oregon Normal School — hence the former “Lamron” title of “The Western Howl” paper. If unsure, read it backwards — not a very “normal” concept.

To add on to the normal trend: Western’s athletic teams, prior to 1928, were known as “The Normals.” Yeah, really regular.

Western adopted multiple other names over time: Christian College (1865-82); Oregon State Normal School (1882-1909); Oregon Normal School (1911-39); Oregon College of Education (1931-81); Western Oregon State College (1981-1997); and lastly, the current title, from 1997 to the present.

Throughout the last 169 years, Western hosted some significant and unforgettable events — as well as stories. In 1962, American Communist Party Secretary Gus Hall delivered a controversial speech at the Oregon College of Education, inciting an uproar. The event was later dubbed the “Gus Hall Affair.”

Previously, Hall had spent years running away from the IRS, after having been convicted of fraud and forgery in an election and had even been imprisoned after attempts to overthrow the American government, posted bail, fled to Mexico City and then was re-imprisoned. And, then, 11 years later, someone invited Gus Hall to speak at Western — nice move.

In less exciting, but still important, history, the 123-foot Sequoia tree in the middle of campus used for the annual holiday tree lighting was planted by the class of 1887. 

Columbus Day, Oct. 12, 1962, Campbell Hall lost its iconic tower structure in a massive storm overtaking Oregon, the crash photographed by student Wes Luchau. The storm, titled the Columbus Day Storm, has been tied directly to Luchau’s photo, even after more than 50 years.

Many of the buildings on campus are named after graduates of Western that went on to make notable accomplishments or titles, such as John H. Ackerman, former president of Oregon Normal School. He helped to secure adequate and stable funding for the school. In 2010, Ackerman Hall was named in his honor, incorporating housing and classrooms in an energy-efficient building.

Todd Hall was named after former Dean of Students Jessica Todd. The building was erected in 1912, closely followed by The Cottage in 1917. Todd, having retired in 1931 and passing away in 1944, was fondly remembered by the college community, but also regarded as being a stern, protective and respected woman.

Here comes the interesting part — it’s been told that Todd’s ghost still roams Western’s campus, looking over the students and the dormitories, as she once had so diligently. Possibly a myth, but in order to discover the truth, one might have to ask around or take a visit to one of Western’s oldest buildings.

In more recent news, Western was picked as the focus for the Amazon Prime Video television show, “The College Tour,” in 2024. And — not to bring myself into one of Western’s most accomplished moments — I was featured in B-roll for the episode, partaking in maybe the most awkward conversation I’ve ever had in American Sign Language. They had me sign a waiver and gave me a sticker, which might be worth the embarrassment. I only have myself to blame, after all.

Speaking of American Sign Language, the ASL program, as well as the Education program, continue to be vital to Western. After all, it was the Oregon College of Education, finding its footing by training teachers all those years ago — 169 is nothing to scoff at.

Despite its many name changes, “normalcy,” previous scandals — looking at you, Gus Hall — and potential ghosts, Western has become a beloved part of many students, professors and others’ lives, showcasing a gorgeous campus, with compassionate staff, enticing classes and endless opportunities. If there’s any time to be grateful, it makes sense to celebrate on Western’s birthday Jan. 18, potentially by toasting to Campbell’s lost tower or mourning the loss of the former publishing name “The Lamron” — I admit, it’s a lot funnier than “The Western Howl.”

Contact the author at howleditorinchief@wou.edu

Military appreciation football game recap

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

The Western Oregon Wolves hosted the Angelo State Rams on a special night of football under the banner of military appreciation. The game began with both teams testing each other’s defenses and finding early success in the kicking game. Western and Angelo State each managed to drive into field goal range, but both teams fell short of the end zone. Kickers from each side capitalized, and the first quarter ended with a 3-3 tie.
The action-packed second quarter began with Angelo State making its first major statement of the night. They scored the game’s first touchdown within the first two minutes of the quarter, taking a 10-3 lead. Before Western could regroup, Angelo struck again, finding the end zone less than three minutes later. The Rams’ quick two-touchdown burst put the Wolves in a 17-3 hole, but the Wolves refused to back down. Western responded with a deep ball from quarterback Michael Gibson to Damon Hickok that shifted the momentum toward the offense. Shortly after, a clutch reception by Kade Hustler allowed the Wolves to secure a crucial first down, pushing them to the doorstep of the end zone. However, a fumble at the 5-yard line gave Angelo State possession, squashing Western’s hopes for a touchdown on that drive. Fortunately, the Wolves’ defense stepped up when it mattered most, forcing Angelo State into a field goal attempt.
Andrew Simpson’s electric kick return set Western up at the 25-yard line, sparking another drive. A series of clutch plays brought the Wolves within 10 yards of the goal line, but they couldn’t punch it in. Western settled for a field goal from Keaton Emmett, narrowing the score to 17-6.
Just when it seemed like Angelo State was going to take over the game, Western’s special teams delivered a game-changing play. A blocked field goal, courtesy of an impressive effort by Cody Hall, was recovered in the end zone for a Wolves touchdown. Emmett added the extra point with a kick, and Western clapped back to make the score 17-13.
Western’s defense continued to dominate, stopping Angelo’s kick return at the 15-yard line and applying pressure. A stand-out play from the defense was when Daron Ulrich Jr. forced an incomplete pass on a potential Angelo touchdown. Although the Wolves were able to regain possession with about 30 seconds left in the half, time ran out before they could add any more points to the board.
At halftime, the Wolves trailed 17-13, but the momentum was finally on their side.
Angelo State came out of the locker room with renewed energy, scoring a touchdown early and adding the extra point to start the third quarter, extending their lead to 24-13. Western’s offense worked hard to respond, with Damon Hickok making key plays to inch closer toward the end zone. While the Wolves couldn’t capitalize with a touchdown, they managed to add a field goal, trimming the score to 24-16.
However, Angelo State’s offense was on a roll. They answered with another touchdown and extra point, building a 31-16 lead. Despite the deficit, Western’s defense continued to fight, with Joseph Northcutt delivering a sack to stop an Angelo drive. The Wolves’ efforts kept the score steady at 31-16 heading into the final quarter.
The fourth quarter opened with a bang as Aaron Woodard delivered a monster hit that set the tone for a physical finish. Both teams dug in, with defenses dominating and possessions going back and forth. Western managed to produce some highlight-reel moments, such as Andrew Simpson’s kick return that left defenders stuck in the turf, and an acrobatic catch from Kade Hustler that kept the Wolves’ hopes alive.
Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, the Wolves’ offense couldn’t find the spark needed to close the gap. Angelo State’s defense held tight, stopping the Wolves’ final pushes. Both teams traded stops as the clock ticked down, and the game ended with Angelo State securing a hard-fought 38-16 victory.
The 2024 season has sadly come to an end, but the Wolves showed significant improvement compared to last year. This season, Western finished with an overall record of 6-5, and 6-3 in conference play — a notable leap from the previous season’s 3-8 overall record and 2-6 league performance. It was inspiring to see Western’s dedicated fans, players, and staff come together to support the team through these hard-fought games. Their passion and commitment have built tremendous anticipation for the upcoming season.

Contact the author at howlsports@mail.wou.edu

Western’s ascent

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

Western’s men’s soccer team has experienced a remarkable ascent in collegiate soccer, particularly during the 2024 season. Established just three years ago, the program has quickly become a powerful force in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference — GNAC — under the guidance of head coach Michael Behonick, a seasoned coach with NCAA Division I experience at Penn State, the University of Pittsburgh and the University of Virginia.
This season has been groundbreaking for the Wolves. In October, they reached their first national ranking, debuting at No. 25 in the United Soccer Coaches NCAA Division II Poll, then climbing to No. 14. With a 12-2-1 overall record and an 8-1 mark in GNAC play as of early November, Western has positioned itself at the top of the conference standings.
Beyond individual talent, the Wolves’ success is rooted in a strong team culture and disciplined leadership. Senior forward Alexis Luna, a key player from Salem, Oregon, has contributed significantly since transferring from Corban University. Luna, inspired by his dad’s passion for soccer, has found motivation in role models like German star Mesut Özil and his mother, who instilled in him the value of hard work. “Soccer-wise, Özil stood out to me. His game was so different from others, and the way he played really caught my attention,” Luna shared.
The Wolves’ team culture, built on unity and discipline, has played a crucial role in their success. “It’s all about unity,” said Luna. “Everyone is comfortable with each other; we don’t exclude anyone.” Coach Behonick reinforces this through discipline, including strict policies on punctuality and attention to detail. “Coach’s regulations make us think about everything we do, allowing us to weigh our options before making decisions. He truly gives us a purpose to work harder for the team,” Luna added.
With aspirations for a GNAC title and potential NCAA tournament participation, the Wolves’ focus remains on disciplined play and strategic execution. With two games left in the conference, Western seeks to take its momentum into the soon-to-come playoffs.  

Contact the author at howlsports@mail.wou.edu

Meet Cori Metzgar

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

Cori Metzgar, the Wolves’ respected strength and conditioning coach, began her journey in sports at an early age. Growing up, the Alaska native excelled in sports, which initially introduced her to strength training. She continued her athletic career at Fort Lewis College, an NCAA Division II school in Colorado, where she further developed her passion for fitness and competition.

Metzgar’s early exposure to training started with her love for sports. At Fort Lewis College, Metzgar was a downhill ski racer as well as a soccer player. She competed in both sports from freshman to junior year, until a significant turning point redefined her path. 

Going into her senior year, Metzgar suffered two broken vertebrae in her back, hindering her from continuing to participate in sports. During the recovery period, she began working under her coach at Fort Lewis College, assisting him for two years which eventually solidified her path toward a career in strength and conditioning. She also drew inspiration from her father, a cross-country and track coach, who instilled a deep appreciation for sports and training. 

Metzgar began her career as a graduate assistant at Western Michigan University. After completing her master’s degree, she joined Ohio State University as a professional intern. Following a year at OSU, she spent the next five years at Colorado State University, serving as the head assistant for football while also overseeing training for volleyball, swimming & diving, softball, tennis and track. Metzgar then moved to Washington State University, where she worked for five years — first as an assistant and later as the associate head strength and conditioning coach — leading programs for baseball, volleyball, swimming, soccer and rowing. In 2011, she embraced the role of head strength coach at Western, where she has remained since.

A typical day in Metzgar’s role starts as early as 6 – 6:30 a.m. She runs training sessions for various teams every 45 minutes until about 11 a.m., followed by a lunch break. Her afternoons aren’t any slower though, packed with even more sessions from 1 to 3 p.m. Despite the demanding schedule, Metzgar still manages to carve out time for her own workouts, while also prioritizing her responsibilities as a mother. Her role requires a ridiculous amount of organizing, as she also has to fit everyone’s training schedules in cohesively. She develops and programs workouts for all the athletes she trains, which include Western’s football, men’s basketball, men’s soccer, baseball and softball programs. 

When not immersed in her professional responsibilities, Metzgar lives an active and fulfilling life. When asked about what she likes to do with her free time, Metzgar shared, “I love to train, run and spend time with my daughter.” She also mentioned that she enjoys traveling, cooking and exploring local wineries such as Brynmawr, Ankeny and West Hills.

What truly sets Metzgar aside from other people in her field is her approach to coaching. “I think what leads to my success is that I’m very passionate about what I do and the people I work with,” she explained. Understanding the unique needs of each athlete, she tailors her training styles accordingly, recognizing that motivating a basketball player might differ from motivating a football player. Her priority is to establish trust: “I want everyone to know that I care. Once they know that you care, they’re going to trust you more.” She embraces the challenge of reaching every athlete, acknowledging that while it may not always be possible, it remains her goal.

Supporting Metzgar here at Western is Josie Boucher, a dedicated strength coach from Austin, Texas. Boucher’s career began with training high school athletes, eventually leading to a role at the University of Texas at Austin for seven months and then a year at Texas A&M. Now in her second year at Western, Boucher is motivated by her collegiate powerlifting days and a significant injury that sparked her interest in the science of training. “I wanted to be everything I didn’t have,” she says, inspired by a lack of guidance during her own athletic journey. 

Boucher’s day often starts around 7 a.m., where she finalizes programming before going into training sessions with women’s soccer, freshman football, volleyball and track. Beyond the gym, Boucher enjoys spending time outdoors with her German shepherd, Roy, reading — currently the third Lord of the Rings book — and staying connected with her family in Texas. 

When asked what advice they would give to someone aspiring to follow a similar path, both Metzgar and Boucher emphasized the importance of building connections. Metzgar advises upcoming strength coaches to volunteer and spend time in weight rooms to gain experience firsthand, while Boucher highlights the value of building relationships with mentors and continuous self-education in sports science. “Building connections with people who are willing to help and know what they are talking about is key,” Boucher adds. 

Together, Metzgar and Boucher bring a great combination of experience, passion and mentorship to the Wolves’ strength and conditioning program. Their commitment to both the athletes and their craft makes them an exceptional team in collegiate sports training.

Contact the author at howlsports@mail.wou.edu

KWOU

Written by: Hannah Field | Editor-in-Chief

According to KWOU’s website, “KWOU is a student-run online radio station and has been the sound of (Western) since our humble beginnings in a closet at the Werner University Center in 2010.” Since then, KWOU has moved to Terry House, next to Public Campus Safety, to continue to “blast tunes” and grow their music library. At Terry House, KWOU has a “PAWDCAST” studio available for rent with professional broadcast equipment and soundproofing. Up to four people at once may use the studio.

KWOU has a radio station available for listening and is open for music recommendations. “The station exists to provide Western students, staff and faculty a chance to share their music and perspectives with the world online 24/7, 365,” said the KWOU website.

Molly Martinka, sophomore at Western, is station manager of KWOU for the 2024–2025 academic school year. “I do all of the behind the scenes work when you come in to use the podcast studio, I’m the one you’ll be communicating with in terms of reserving the studio and making sure that you’re all set up to record (for the PAWDCAST studio).”

On top of that, Martinka manages the scheduling if students are interested in DJing. She also oversees KWOU as a whole, making sure that anyone coming in to use equipment or get involved understands the rules so the whole process runs smoothly.

Martinka herself is in the music scene and devoted to KWOU’s mission. “I’m a singer-songwriter,” said Martinka. “I’ve just always loved music. I’ve grown up making it into a career for myself and I think radio is a big part of that, but there’s such a lack of radio right now. It’s very social media and streaming platform based, and I really think that student freedom of speech is very important.”

KWOU has an Instagram account as well as an email for contact — kwou@mail.wou.edu — as a means of getting connected and involved.

“I think there’s this idea that (KWOU) is an exclusive thing that you have to be a part of already, and that’s not the case at all,” said Martinka. “Any student can join, and any student can reach out and reserve the studio or become a DJ, or even if they just wanted to get involved and learn a little bit more about KWOU and Terry House.”

“We’re always looking for show hosts, music junkies, marketing-minded individuals, outcasts and anyone who can help make our station and our community a stronger, more connected one,” said the KWOU website.

Contact the author at howleditorinchief@mail.wou.edu